Jim Metzen, Minnesota Legislator

Early life and political beginnings

Metzen was born in 1943 and later established his life and career in the Twin Cities region. He began his public career at the local level and then moved into state government, serving in the Minnesota Legislature for an extended period. During that time he developed a reputation as a practical, accessible lawmaker who focused on issues affecting his district.

Service in the Minnesota Legislature

Over the course of his legislative career Metzen served both in the state House and in the Minnesota Senate, representing a district that covered parts of Dakota County. He participated in the legislative process across a range of policy areas, worked on laws affecting local governments and infrastructure, and was active on panels that shaped budgetary and procedural matters. His work often bridged local concerns and statewide policy debates.

Leadership, committees and areas of focus

Metzen held leadership positions in the Senate and chaired or served on a number of important committees. Colleagues from both parties often described him as collegial and pragmatic. Key themes in his work included local government issues, transportation and commerce, and the functioning of legislative institutions.

• Representative of southeastern Twin Cities constituents in Dakota County: Dakota County
• Member of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party: DFL
• Official legislative profile and record: Senate page
• General biography and career overview: biography

Legacy and death

Metzen died on July 11, 2016, in South St. Paul after a battle with lung cancer, at the age of 72. His passing was noted across Minnesota political circles and in local media, which remembered him for long service, deep ties to his district, and a steady approach to governance. For news coverage and remembrances of his life and career, see contemporary reporting and obituaries: news and obituaries.

Metzen's career illustrates the role of long-serving state legislators in shaping local policy and institutional practice. He remains a reference point for constituents and colleagues interested in the political history of Dakota County and the workings of the Minnesota Legislature.